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Multi-coloured, concentrically zoned, turkey-tail-like fruiting bodies of Trametes versicolor on deadwood.

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Turkey Tail

Caution

Schmetterlingstramete · (Trametes versicolor)

Polypore family (Polyporaceae)

Description

Turkey tail is a common, tough bracket fungus that grows in shimmering, concentrically banded fans on dead wood, which gives it its name. The bands alternate between brown, grey, blue-green and ochre depending on site and weather — hence the species name versicolor, the many-coloured one. It grows in overlapping tiers in large groups on stumps and fallen broadleaf trunks and can be found year-round, as the tough fruiting bodies overwinter. The most reliable identifying feature is on the underside: a fine white layer of pores. The similarly coloured false turkey tail has a smooth surface there instead. Because of its firm texture it is not an edible mushroom but is used as a tea or extract. Its signature constituents are the polysaccharides PSK (krestin) and PSP, along with beta-glucans. In East Asia it is used in traditional medicine and as a companion to cancer therapies; its toxicity is low.

  • TeaWhole plantInternalTraditional use

    Decoction (long simmer) of the dried, chopped fruiting body as an immune-supporting tonic tea in traditional Chinese medicine (Yunzhi). A brief infusion is not enough — the beta-glucans only come out of the tough tissue with prolonged simmering. The brew tastes mild and slightly woody.

    Preparation & dosage

    Put about 5 g of dried, chopped fruiting bodies into a litre of water and simmer gently for 45 to 60 minutes, then strain. The brew keeps two to three days in the fridge.

    Dry amount
    3–5 g
    Doses per day
    2×

    Sources: [1] [2]

  • RawWhole plantInternalClinical trial

    Standardised polysaccharide extract PSK (krestin) from the mycelium as powder or capsule; approved in Japan as adjuvant immunochemotherapy after curative resection of gastric and colorectal cancer. Several randomised trials and meta-analyses show a survival benefit. Important context: what was studied is a standardised medicine in addition to chemotherapy — not a food supplement, and not instead of treatment. A tea made from forest pickings is not the same thing. Anyone in oncological care should clear any use with their treating doctor first.

    Sources: [2] [3]

  • TinctureWhole plantInternalFolk medicine

    Alcoholic tincture or dual extract of the fruiting body in modern folk practice for general immune support. The double extraction is meant to capture both the water-soluble polysaccharides and the alcohol-soluble fractions. There is no demonstrated benefit for this form of use.

    Sources: [2]
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